What is the Under 18 Care Program?
The Under 18 Care program provides a range of support to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Under 18 students whilst they are living in Sydney and studying with us at UNSW College.
Who is the Under 18 Care Program for?
Our Under 18 Care Program is specifically designed for Under 18 international students who are living in Sydney without a parent or legal guardian and therefore have been issued with a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW).
What supports are offered to Under 18 students?
Regular Meetings with Student Wellbeing Advisers: During these meetings, Student Wellbeing Advisers will discuss with students all matters related to their studies, their health and wellbeing, social life and accommodation. These meetings are also an opportunity for students to ask any questions or raise any concerns they may have. Student Wellbeing Advisers can also refer students to other support services such as doctor or a counsellor. Student Wellbeing Advisers work closely with academic and student accommodation providers.
Accommodation Assistance: Under 18 students issued with CAAW can only stay in accommodation approved by UNSW College. However, if students are not satisfied with their current accommodation or are experiencing any issues, our Accommodation Team can assist in resolving those issues and if required, assisting with changing accommodation.
After Hour Emergency Support: All Under 18 students can access support not only during business hours but also after hours. Students requiring emergency support after hours are advised to contact their accommodation provider emergency number. If the matter is serious, the accommodation provider will contact a member of Student Wellbeing Team who is on call so comprehensive support can be provided to the student in need.
Raising a Complaint: Student complaints are taken very seriously at the College and every complaint is handled with professional care and dignity. As an Under 18 student, it is important that you feel safe and supported when raising a complaint at the College – or in the event that someone makes a complaint about you. To raise a complaint, you can use the College Complaint Form or email [email protected]. Our complaints handling team will alert your Student Wellbeing Adviser who will contact you to see if you need any support. If you do not want to alert your Student Wellbeing Adviser, please ensure you indicate this at the time.
Reporting an Incident of Sexual Misconduct: As an Under 18 student in higher education, it is important to know that staff members have a legal responsibility to report any concerns related to child safety, including incidents or disclosures of sexual misconduct. This is called mandatory reporting, and it exists to protect you and ensure your wellbeing. If you experience or witness something concerning, you are encouraged to speak up – whether you want to do so confidentially or through formal channels. Your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities, and we are committed to making sure you feel supported, listened to, and respected throughout the process. There are dedicated staff available to help guide you through your options in a safe and respectful way. To report sexual misconduct, you can speak privately with your Student Wellbeing Adviser who will help you, or you can report anonymously through the Student Reporting Form: Sexual Misconduct.
Liaising with Parents: Student Wellbeing Advisers will liaise with parents regrading important matters related to student’s course progress and attendance as well as any health and welfare related issues as well as accommodation matters. Parents wishing to contact Student Wellbeing Advisers should email [email protected].
Transition to UNSW Process: Under 18 students who remain under 18 at commencement of their UNSW program will be provided with assistance with planning for the gap between programs, securing approved accommodation for the commencement of University and providing students with information regarding any seminars they need to attend before commencing at UNSW as an Under 18 student.
